NYSC: Mixed Reactions Follow Payment of ₦77k Allowance to Corps Members By FG

Israel Adeleke

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that shortly after the Federal Government of Nigeria, begins disbursing the new ₦77,000 monthly allowance to members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) after months of delays, there have being reports of praises and bashes across various states.

OTN News further reports that the corps member across various states who confirmed receiving the increased stipend, channeled their opinions with some praising the new development while others saying it doesn't worth celebrating.

OTN News gathered that Corps members in Kwara, Kano, and Yobe have reported receiving their allowances, with indications that 2024 Batch A Stream 2 members were prioritized in the initial phase.

OTN News observes that the new payments are being made in phases, leaving some still awaiting disbursement.

Furthermore, OTN News also observes that as many confirmed the payment, they noted that the increase is long overdue.

A corps member in Kwara State, Adepoju, noted, “Yes, the scheme has commenced ₦77,000. The increase is long overdue.”

Similarly, Nkiruka, serving in Kano State, confirmed, “Yes, the increase was long overdue, and I have received the ₦77,000 allowance.”

Ibrahim Tunde also verified the payment, saying, “Yes, the Federal Government has begun disbursing the newly approved ₦77,000 monthly allowance to corps members across the country.”

Some corps members reacted with humor and gratitude. Esther Eric joked, “DG for president! Thank you, Sir. We are grateful. ₦77k well received. Make I go price land.”

However, while many corps members acknowledge that the raise was long overdue, some argue that ₦77,000 remains insufficient given the rising cost of living.

Stella Abiodun remarked: “Yes, corps members have started receiving ₦77k. While this isn’t exactly worth celebrating—because, let’s be honest, ₦77k barely covers anything in today’s economy—it proves one thing: they are listening.”

She added: “This is why we must keep demanding what we rightfully deserve instead of sitting back, hoping these politicians will magically change or step down. Pressure works, and if we can make them increase this allowance, we can push for even bigger changes. The question is, will we keep the momentum or go back to silence?”

OTN News observes that despite the progress, uncertainties remain regarding full disbursement, as many corps members are still waiting for their turn to receive the increased allowance.

Meanwhile, the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, reaffirmed this development during an interaction with corps members in Abuja, assuring them that all payments would be completed.

Similarly, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, addressed the issue on Channels Television’s Politics Today, confirming that the disbursement process had been finalized, paving the way for payments to commence.